Accuracy and diagnostic performance of the Bethesda system for reporting thyroid cytopathology in a tertiary endocrine surgical referral center in Belgium.

BACKGROUND: The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology is a commonly used classification for fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology of suspicious thyroid nodules. The risk of malignancy (ROM) for each category has recently been analyzed in three international databases. This paper compares the diagnostic performance of the Bethesda classification in a high-volume referral center in Belgium. METHODS: All consecutive thyroid procedures were registered in a prospective database from January 2010 till August 2022. Patient and surgical characteristics, preoperative Bethesda categories, and postoperative pathology results were analyzed. RESULTS: Out of 2219 consecutive thyroid procedures, 1226 patients underwent preoperative FNA. Papillary thyroid cancer was the most prevalent malignancy (N = 119, 70.4%), followed by follicular (N = 17, 10.1%) and medullary thyroid cancer (N = 15, 8.9%). Micropapillary thyroid cancer was incidentally found in 46 (3.8%) patients. Bethesda categories I, II, III, IV, V, and VI, respectively, represented 250 (20.4%; ROM 4.4%), 546 (44.5%; ROM 3.8%), 96 (7.8%; ROM 20.8%), 231 (18.8%; ROM 15.2%), 62 (5.1%; ROM 72.6%), and 41 (3.3%; ROM 90.2%) patients. Overall ROM was 13.8%. An negative predictive value (NPV) of 96.2% was found. Overall specificity was 64.2% with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 31.9%. Diagnostic accuracy was 67.8%. Compared to international databases (CESQIP, EUROCRINE, and UKRETS), ROM in this study appeared lower for Bethesda category IV (15.2 vs. 26.7% and p = 0.612). CONCLUSION: Despite being validated in numerous studies, ROM based on preoperative FNA cytology classified according to the Bethesda classification may vary among surgical centers and countries as this study reveals a higher NPV and lower PPV.

An Improved k-Nearest Neighbor Algorithm for Recognition and Classification of Thyroid Nodules.

OBJECTIVES: To complete the task of automatic recognition and classification of thyroid nodules and solve the problem of high classification error rates when the samples are imbalanced. METHODS: An improved k-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithm is proposed and a method for automatic thyroid nodule classification based on the improved KNN algorithm is established. In the improved KNN algorithm, we consider not only the number of class labels for various classes of data in KNNs, but also the corresponding weights. And we use the Minkowski distance measure instead of the Euclidean distance measure. RESULTS: A total of 508 ultrasound images of thyroid nodules, including 415 benign nodules and 93 malignant nodules, were used in the paper. Experimental results show the improved KNN has 0.872549 accuracy, 0.867347 precision, 1 recall, and 0.928962 F1-score. At the same time, we also considered the influence of different distance weights, the value of k, different distance measures on the classification results. CONCLUSIONS: A comparison result shows that our method has a better performance than the traditional KNN and other classical machine learning methods.

Classification of Benign-Malignant Thyroid Nodules Based on Hyperspectral Technology.

In recent years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has rapidly increased. To address the issue of the inefficient diagnosis of thyroid cancer during surgery, we propose a rapid method for the diagnosis of benign and malignant thyroid nodules based on hyperspectral technology. Firstly, using our self-developed thyroid nodule hyperspectral acquisition system, data for a large number of diverse thyroid nodule samples were obtained, providing a foundation for subsequent diagnosis. Secondly, to better meet clinical practical needs, we address the current situation of medical hyperspectral image classification research being mainly focused on pixel-based region segmentation, by proposing a method for nodule classification as benign or malignant based on thyroid nodule hyperspectral data blocks. Using 3D CNN and VGG16 networks as a basis, we designed a neural network algorithm (V3Dnet) for classification based on three-dimensional hyperspectral data blocks. In the case of a dataset with a block size of 50 × 50 × 196, the classification accuracy for benign and malignant samples reaches 84.63%. We also investigated the impact of data block size on the classification performance and constructed a classification model that includes thyroid nodule sample acquisition, hyperspectral data preprocessing, and an algorithm for thyroid nodule classification as benign and malignant based on hyperspectral data blocks. The proposed model for thyroid nodule classification is expected to be applied in thyroid surgery, thereby improving surgical accuracy and providing strong support for scientific research in related fields.

Changes in thyroid cytology reporting in the 3rd edition of the Bethesda system.

Reporting fine-needle aspiration of thyroid nodules in the Bethesda classification is a practice widely used internationally and by us. The revised third edition of the Bethesda System of Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology brings changes in terminology, content, and new chapters. In terms of terminology, an obvious change is the removal of the two-word names of three categories while maintaining the six diagnostic categories of the previous versions - new: BI - non-diag- nostic, BIII - atypia of undetermined significance, BIV - follicular neoplasia. In the detailed description of the findings within the individual categories, the ter- minological changes adopted by the fifth edition of the WHO classification of thyroid neoplasia are respected - in particular, the recommended name follicular thyroid nodular disease for the most frequently represented category BII - benign. In the evaluation itself, the diagnostic specifications accepted by the current WHO classification of histopathological findings are reflected in the individual categories - if they are applicable at the cytological level. Targeted attention will need to be paid to high grade features. The revised version brings new chapters dedicated to molecular testing and evaluation of the paediatric population.

Hybrid deep learning assisted multi classification: Grading of malignant thyroid nodules.

Thyroid nodules are commonly diagnosed with ultrasonography, which includes internal characteristics, varying looks, and hazy boundaries, making it challenging for a clinician to differentiate between malignant and benign forms based only on visual identification. The advancement of AI, particularly DL, provides significant breakthroughs in the domain of medical image identification. Yet, there are certain obstacles to achieving accuracy as well as efficacy in thyroid nodule detection. The thyroid nodules in this study are detected and classified using an inventive hybrid deep learning-assisted multi-classification method. The median blur method is applied in this work to eliminate the salt and pepper noise from the image. Then MPIU-Net-based segmentation is utilized to segment the image. The LGBPNP-based features are retrieved from the segmented image to obtain a single histogram sequence of the LGBP pattern in addition to other features like extraction of multi-texton and LTP-based features. After the feature extraction, the data augmentation process is applied and then the features are fed to the hybrid classification-based nodule classification model that comprises Deep Maxout and CNN, this hybrid classification trains the features and predicts the thyroid nodule. Additionally, the TIRADS score classification is used for the projected malignant thyroid nodule coupled with statistical features collected from the segmented. The DBNAAF with transfer learning model is employed to classify the grading of malignant thyroid nodules, where the weights of the model are learned with transfer learning. The MCC of the Hybrid Model is 0.9445, whereas the DCNN is 0.6858, YOLOV3-DMRF is 0.7229, CNN is 0.7780, DBN is 0.7601, Bi-GRU is 0.7038, Deep Maxout is 0.7528, and RNN is 0.8522, respectively.

Assessment of inflammatory parameters as predictive markers for malignancy in thyroid nodules: a study on the correlation with Bethesda classification.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to assess the predictive significance of inflammatory parameters as potential markers for malignancy in individuals with thyroid nodules. METHOD: Nine hundred and ninety-one patients with thyroid nodules who had undergone thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy were included and classified according to the Bethesda system. Neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) values obtained from hemogram parameters were determined for each patient. The study examined the correlation between the Bethesda classification and NLR/SII levels. In addition, a comparison was made between the inflammatory parameters of the benign and malignant Bethesda groups. RESULTS: Five hundred and seventy-three patients were classified as Bethesda 2 (benign), 34 as Bethesda 6 (malignant). A correlation was observed between the Bethesda classification and NLR and SII levels (r: 0.230, p < 0.001; r: 0.207 p < 0.001, respectively). NLR and SII values were significantly higher in the malignant group (p < 0.001). The cutoff value for SII in predicting benign and malignant thyroid nodules was 489.86 × 103/mm3 with a sensitivity of 88.2% and a specificity of 63.7%. The cutoff value for NLR for the same prediction was 2.06 with a sensitivity of 82.4% and a specificity of 83.4%. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study indicate that SII and NLR may be valuable prognostic markers for predicting the malignancy of thyroid nodules.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar parámetros inflamatorios como posibles marcadores de malignidad en individuos con nódulos tiroideos. MÉTODO: Se incluyeron 991 pacientes con nódulos tiroideos que se sometieron a biopsia por aspiración con aguja fina y se clasificaron según el sistema de Bethesda. Se determinaron los valores de la relación neutrófilo-linfocito (NLR) y el índice de inflamación inmunitaria sistémica (SII). El estudio exploró la correlación entre la clasificación de Bethesda y los valores de NLR/SII, y comparó los parámetros inflamatorios de los grupos benignos y malignos de Bethesda. RESULTADOS: Se clasificaron 573 pacientes como Bethesda 2 (benigno) y 34 como Bethesda 6 (maligno). Se observó una correlación entre la clasificación de Bethesda y los valores de NLR y SII (r: 0.230; r: 0.207). Los valores de NLR y SII fueron mayores en el grupo maligno (p < 0.001). El valor de corte para SII en la predicción de nódulos tiroideos benignos y malignos fue de 489.86 × 103/mm3, con una sensibilidad del 88.2% y una especificidad del 63.7%; para NLR fue de 2.06, con una sensibilidad del 82.4% y una especificidad del 83.4%. CONCLUSIONES: El SII y el NLR pueden ser valiosos marcadores pronósticos para predecir la malignidad de los nódulos tiroideos.

Interobserver variability in thyroid ultrasound.

PURPOSE: Ultrasound evaluation of thyroid nodules is the preferred technique, but it is dependent on operator interpretation, leading to inter-observer variability. The current study aimed to determine the inter-physician consensus on nodular characteristics, risk categorization in the classification systems, and the need for fine needle aspiration puncture. METHODS: Four endocrinologists from the same center blindly evaluated 100 ultrasound images of thyroid nodules from 100 different patients. The following ultrasound features were evaluated: composition, echogenicity, margins, calcifications, and microcalcifications. Nodules were also classified according to ATA, EU-TIRADS, K-TIRADS, and ACR-TIRADS classifications. Krippendorff's alpha test was used to assess interobserver agreement. RESULTS: The interobserver agreement for ultrasound features was: Krippendorff's coefficient 0.80 (0.71-0.89) for composition, 0.59 (0.47-0.72) for echogenicity, 0.73 (0.57-0.88) for margins, 0.55 (0.40-0.69) for calcifications, and 0.50 (0.34-0.67) for microcalcifications. The concordance for the classification systems was 0.7 (0.61-0.80) for ATA, 0.63 (0.54-0.73) for EU-TIRADS, 0.64 (0.55-0.73) for K-TIRADS, and 0.68 (0.60-0.77) for K-TIRADS. The concordance in the indication of fine needle aspiration puncture (FNA) was 0.86 (0.71-1), 0.80 (0.71-0.88), 0.77 0.67-0.87), and 0.73 (0.64-0.83) for systems previously described respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Interobserver agreement was acceptable for the identification of nodules requiring cytologic study using various classification systems. However, limited concordance was observed in risk stratification and many ultrasonographic characteristics of the nodules.

Evaluating Postoperative Outcomes and Investigating the Usefulness of EU-TIRADS Scoring in Managing Pediatric Thyroid Nodules Bethesda 3 and 4

Objective: The aim was to assess postoperative outcomes in pediatric thyroid nodules with atypia of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) or suspicious for a follicular neoplasm (SFN) and their respective the European-Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (EU-TIRADS) scores. Methods: Forty-four pediatric patients at a single center with thyroid nodules classified as AUS/FLUS or SFN from August 2019 to December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on demographics, thyroid function, nodule size, and ultrasonographic features were collected. Postoperative pathologies were categorized into benign, low-risk, and malignant neoplasms according to the World Health Organization 2022 criteria, and EU-TIRADS was used for retrospective radiological scoring. Results: Among 21 (47.7%) of patients who had surgical intervention, 72% had Bethesda 3 and 28% had Bethesda 4 thyroid nodules. Post-surgical histopathological classifications were 43% benign, 19% low-risk, and 38% malignant. Of note, EU-TIRADS 3 and 5 scores were present in 44% and 56% of the benign cases, respectively. Malignant cases tended to produce higher EU-TIRADS scores, with 64% rated as EU-TIRADS 5. Bethesda category 4 nodules had a 66% malignancy rate, significantly higher than the 27% in category 3. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of histologically benign cases were classified as EU-TIRADS 5, suggesting that EU-TIRADS may lead to unnecessary biopsies in benign cases. Malignant cases were more likely to have a higher EU-TIRADS score, indicating a positive correlation with malignancy risk, particularly in Bethesda 4 cases. However, the EU-TIRADS system's predictive value for malignancy in Bethesda 3 cases was poorer.

Rendimiento del sistema Bethesda en el diagnóstico citopatológico del nódulo tiroideo en un centro universitario (Hospital de Clínicas) de Uruguay, diez años de experiencia / Performance of the Bethesda SYSTEM in the cytopathological diagnosis of the thyroid nodule in a university center (Hospital de Clínicas) in Uruguay, ten years of experience / Desempenho do sistema Bethesda no diagnóstico citopatológico de nódulos tireoidianos em um centro universitário (Hospital de Clínicas) no Uruguai, dez anos de experiencia

Resumen: Introducción: el estudio citológico por punción ecoguiada se caracteriza por ser rápido, confiable, mínimamente invasivo y rentable. Permite reducir procedimientos quirúrgicos innecesarios y clasifica apropiadamente a los pacientes con nódulos sospechosos o malignos para una intervención quirúrgica oportuna. Objetivo: el objetivo del presente estudio es evaluar la correlación citológica-anatomopatológica del sistema Bethesda en un centro universitario (Hospital de Clínicas) de Uruguay. Metodología: se realizó un estudio de tipo observacional, retrospectivo, descriptivo, basado el análisis de historias clínicas de pacientes sometidos a cirugía tiroidea en el Hospital de Clínicas, en el período comprendido entre enero de 2008 y diciembre de 2018. Resultados: del total inicial de 119 pacientes, 93 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. El rango de edad de la muestra fue entre 15 y 79 años. Del total de puncionados 49,5% (46) fueron informados como benignos y 50,5% (47) como malignos. Se calculó en forma global una sensibilidad de 96% (0,96) con IC 1,0-0,90, especificidad de 98% (0,97) con IC 1,0-0,93, un VPP de 98% y VPN de 96%. La sensibilidad diagnóstica para la categoría IV, V y VI fue de 96%, con una especificidad de 100, 94 y 100% respectivamente. Conclusiones: el sistema Bethesda aplicado a las PAAF de nódulos tiroideos potencia la certeza diagnóstica y asiste en la decisión terapéutica. En nuestra institución contamos con una buena correlación citopatológica, similar a otros trabajos reportados en la literatura, lo que permite predecir adecuadamente el riesgo de malignidad y facilitar la toma de decisiones.

Summary: Introduction: the ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) study is characterized by being fast, reliable, minimally invasive, and cost-effective. It reduces unnecessary surgical procedures and appropriately classifies patients with suspicious or malignant nodules for timely surgical intervention. Objective: the objective of this study is to evaluate the cytological-pathological correlation of the Bethesda System in a university center (Hospital de Clínicas) in Uruguay. Methodology: an observational, retrospective, descriptive study was carried out, based on the analysis of medical records of patients undergoing thyroid surgery at the Hospital de Clínicas, in the period between January 2008 and December 2018. Results: of the initial total of 119 patients, 93 met the inclusion criteria. The age range of the sample was between 15 and 79 years. Of the total of punctured, 49.5% (46) were reported as benign and 50.5% (47) as malignant. A sensitivity of 96% (0.96) with CI 1.0-0.90, specificity of 98% (0.97) with CI 1.0-0.93, a PPV of 98% and NPV of 96%. The diagnostic sensitivity for categories IV, V and VI was 96% with a specificity of 100, 94 and 100% respectively. Conclusions: the Bethesda system applied to FNA of thyroid nodules enhances diagnostic certainty and assists in the therapeutic decision. In our institution we have a good cytopathological correlation, similar to other works reported in the literature. This makes it possible to adequately predict the risk of malignancy and facilitate decision-making.

Resumo: Introdução: o estudo citológico por punção guiada por ultrassom caracteriza-se por ser rápido, confiável, minimamente invasivo e de baixo custo. Permite reduzir procedimentos cirúrgicos desnecessários e classificar adequadamente pacientes com nódulos suspeitos ou malignos para intervenção cirúrgica oportuna. Objetivo: avaliar a correlação citológico-patológica do Sistema Bethesda em um centro universitário (Hospital de Clínicas) no Uruguai. Metodologia: foi realizado um estudo observacional, retrospectivo, descritivo, baseado na análise de prontuários de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de tireoide no Hospital de Clínicas, no período janeiro de 2008-dezembro de 2018. Resultados: do total inicial de 119 pacientes, 93 preencheram os critérios de inclusão. A faixa etária da amostra foi entre 15 e 79 anos. Do total de punções, 49,5% (46) foram relatadas como benignas e 50,5% (47) como malignas. No geral, uma sensibilidade de 96% (0,96) com IC 1,0-0,90, uma especificidade de 98% (0,97) com IC 1,0-0,93, um VPP de 98% e VPN de 96%. A sensibilidade diagnóstica para as categorias IV, V e VI foi de 96% com especificidade de 100, 94 e 100%, respectivamente. Conclusões: o sistema Bethesda aplicado à PAAF de nódulos tireoidianos aumenta a certeza diagnóstica e auxilia na decisão terapêutica. Em nossa instituição temos uma boa correlação citopatológica, semelhante a outros trabalhos relatados na literatura. Isso permite prever adequadamente o risco de malignidade e facilitar a tomada de decisão.

Utilidad para médicos no radiólogos de la clasificación tirads y las características ecográficas de los nódulos tiroideos / Usefulness for non radiologist physicians of tirad classification and ecographic characteristics of thyroid nodules

Dada la mayor accesibilidad a la ecografía tiroidea, se diagnostican más nódulos de forma incidental aumentando su prevalencia al 65% en las tres últimas décadas. Todo ello ha supuesto un aumento de punciones innecesarias. El objetivo de nuestro estudio es identificar la utilidad de la clasificación TIRADS y de las características ecográficas de los nódulos tiroideos para establecer la probabilidad de malignidad de los mismos y seleccionar aquellos sospechosos para realizar la punción y aspiración con aguja fina (PAAF). Se encontró una relación estadísticamente significativa entre la malignidad y nódulo sólido, hipoecogenicidad, márgenes irregulares y microcalcificaciones. Sin embargo, no se encontró relación estadísticamente significativa entre malignidad y número de nódulos, tamaño nodular, diámetro craneocaudal y vascularización central. Asimismo, un 26.1% de los nódulos TIRADS-2 (todos ellos microcarcinomas), un 30% de los TIRADS-3 y un 54 % de los TIRADS-4 fueron malignos (p 0.027). Tanto el TIRADS como las características ecográficas aisladas son útiles para identificar nódulos sugerentes de malignidad.

Owed to the easier accessibility to thyroid ecography, more incidental nodules are discovered reaching their prevalence the 65 % of population in the last three decades. All of it has resulted in a growth of unnecessary fine needle aspirations (FNA). Our study objective is to identify the TIRADS classification utility and the nodules sonographic characteristics to establish their probability of malignancy and to select those suspicious susceptible of FNA. We found a statistically significant relationship between malignancy and solid nodule, hypoechogenicity, irregular margins and microcalcifications. However we didn´t find a relation between malignancy and number, size, shape (taller than wide) and central vascularity. With respect to TIRADS classification, 26,1% of TIRADS-2 (all of them microcarcinomas), 30% of TIRADS-3 and 54% of TIRADS-4 were malignant (p: 0,027). Both of them, TIRADS and individual sonographic characteristics are useful to identify nodules suspicious of malignancy.

Is thyroid nodule volume predictive for malignancy?

ABSTRACT Objective: We aimed to determine the roles of preoperative thyroid nodule diameter and volume in the prediction of malignancy. Subjects and methods: The medical records of patients who underwent thyroidectomy between January 2007 and December 2014 were reviewed. The nodule diameters were grouped as < 1 cm, 1-1.9 cm, 2-3.9 cm and ≥ 4 cm, and volume was grouped as > 5 cm3, 5-9.9 cm3 and > 10 cm3. ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) curve analysis was performed to find the optimal cutoff value of diameter and volume that can predict malignancy. Results: There were 5561 thyroid nodules in 2463 patients. Five hundred and forty (9.7%) nodules were < 1 cm, 2,413 (43.4%) were 1-1.9 cm, 1,600 (28.8%) were 2-3.9 cm and 1,008 (18.1%) were ≥ 4 cm. Malignancy rates were 25.6%,10.6%, 9.7% and 8.5% in nodules < 1 cm, 1-1.9 cm, 2-3.9 cm and ≥ 4 cm, respectively. When classified according to volume, 3,664 (65.9%) nodules were < 5 cm3, 594 (10.7%) were 5-9.9 cm3 and 1,303 (23.4%) were ≥ 10 cm3. The malignancy rates were 12.7%, 11.4% and 7.8% for the nodules < 5 cm3, 5-9.9 cm3 and ≥ 10 cm3, respectively (p < 0.001). In ROC curve analysis, an optimal cutoff value for diameter or volume that can predict malignancy in all thyroid nodules or nodules ≥ 4 cm could not be determined. Conclusion: In this surgical series, malignancy risk did not increase with increasing nodule diameter or volume. Although the volume of malignant nodules ≥ 4 cm was higher than that of benign nodules ≥ 4 cm, there was no optimal cutoff value. The diameter or volume of the nodule cannot be used to predict malignancy or decide on surgical resection.

Modelo ambulatorial de atendimento de nódulo de tireoide / Ambulatory care model thyroid nodule

A prevalência de detecção de nódulos na tireoide através da palpação é de aproximadamente 5%. Essa prevalência sobe para 19 a 67% quando utilizada a avaliação ecográfica. A importância da avaliação clínica dessa entidade está na necessidade de diagnosticar o câncer de tireoide que ocorre em 5 a 10% dos casos. O relato descreve o perfil dos atendimentos realizados no ambulatório de nódulos de tireoide do Hospital Municipal Dr. Mário Gatti no período de 01/05/17 a 27/07/18 de pacientes que tiveram diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de nódulo de tireoide e realizaram punção aspirativa por agulha fina, a fim de inferir a respeito da capacidade de resolutividade do ambulatório interdisciplinar (endocrinologia e cirurgia de cabeça e pescoço) no diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer de tireoide. A organização do ambulatório com atendimento integral e por equipe multidisciplinar, possibilita uma melhora na qualidade assistencial além de ser elemento facilitador para o ensino, aprendizado e pesquisa. (AU)

The rate of thyroid node detection by touch is approximately 5%. This rate goes up to a range between 19 and 67% when a sonographic evaluation is used. The importance of the clinical evaluation of those thyroid nodes is within the need of diagnosing the cancer that occurs in 5 to 10% of the cases. This paper describes the profile of consultations performed at the Outpatient Clinic Thyroid Node Unit of the Municipal Hospital Dr. Mário Gatti (HMMG) from 01/05/17 to 07/27/18, of patients who had ultrasonographic diagnostics of thyroid node and underwent fine-needle aspiration, in order to draw conclusions about the capacity of the interdisciplinary clinic (Endocrinology and Head and Neck surgery) to diagnose and treat thyroid cancer effectively. The organization of the outpatient clinic, with comprehensive care and multidisciplinary team, enables an improvement in medical assistance as well as facilitating teaching, learning and research. (AU)

Malignancy rates for Bethesda III subcategories in thyroid fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB)

OBJECTIVES: Most thyroid diseases are nodular and have been investigated using ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), the reports of which are standardized by the Bethesda System. Bethesda category III represents a heterogeneous group in terms of lesion characteristics and the malignancy rates reported in the literature. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the differences in the malignancy rates among Bethesda III subcategories. METHODS: Data from 1,479 patients who had thyroid surgery were reviewed. In total, 1,093 patients (89.6% female, mean age 52.7 (13-89) years) were included, and 386 patients were excluded. FNAB results (based on Bethesda Class) and histopathological results (benign or malignant) for coincident areas were collected. Bethesda III patients were subcategorized according to cytopathological characteristics (FLUS: follicular lesion of undetermined significance, Bethesda IIIA; AUS: atypia of undetermined significance, Bethesda IIIB). Data were correlated to obtain the malignancy rates for each Bethesda category and the newly defined subcategory. RESULTS: FNAB results for these patients were as follows: Bethesda I: 3.1%; Bethesda II: 18.6%; Bethesda III: 35.0%; Bethesda IV: 22.1%; Bethesda V: 4.1%; and Bethesda VI: 17.1%. The malignancy rates for Bethesda Class IIIB were significantly higher than those for Bethesda Class IIIA (p<0.001) and Bethesda Class IV (p<0.001). Bethesda Class IIIA showed significantly lower malignancy rates than Bethesda Class III overall (p<0.001) CONCLUSIONS: Improvements of the Bethesda System should consider this subcategorization to better reflect different malignancy rates, which may have a significant impact on the decision-making process.

Likelihood of malignancy in thyroid nodules according to a proposed Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) classification merging suspicious and benign ultrasound features

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to describe the ultrasound features of benign and malignant thyroid nodules and evaluate the likelihood of malignancy associated with each feature according to the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology and histopathology. With this analysis, we propose a new TI-RADS classification system. Materials and methods The likelihood of malignancy from ultrasound features were assessed in 1413 thyroid nodules according to the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology and histopathological findings. A score was established by attributing different weights to each ultrasound feature evaluated. Results Features positively associated with malignancy in bivariate analysis received a score weight of +1. We attributed a weight of +2 to features which were independently associated with malignancy in a multivariate analysis and +3 for those associated with the highest odds ratio for malignancy (> 10.0). Hence, hypoechogenicity (graded as mild, moderate or marked, according to a comparison with the overlying strap muscle), microcalcification and irregular/microlobulated margin received the highest weights in our scoring system. Features that were negatively associated with malignancy received weights of -2 or -1. In the proposed system a cutoff score of 2 (sensitivity 97.4% and specificity 51.6%) was adopted as a transition between probably benign (TI-RADS 3) and TI-RADS 4a nodules. Overall, the frequency of malignancy in thyroid nodules according to the categories was 1.0% for TI-RADS 3, 7.8% for TI-RADS 4a, 35.3% for TI-RADS 4b, and 84.7% for TI-RADS 5. Conclusion A newly proposed TI-RADS classification adequately assessed the likelihood of malignancy in thyroid nodules.

Correlation of Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System [TI-RADS] and fine needle aspiration: experience in 1, 000 nodules / Correlação entre a classificação Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System [TI-RADS] e punção aspirativa por agulha fina: experiência com 1. 000 nódulos

ABSTRACT Objective To correlate the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) and the Bethesda system in reporting cytopathology in 1,000 thyroid nodules. Methods A retrospective study conducted from November 2011 to February 2014 that evaluated 1,000 thyroid nodules of 906 patients who underwent ultrasound exam and fine needle aspiration. Results A significant association was found between the TI-RADS outcome and Bethesda classification (p<0.001). Most individuals with TI-RADS 2 or 3 had Bethesda 2 result (95.5% and 92.5%, respectively). Among those classified as TI-RADS 4C and 5, most presented Bethesda 6 (68.2% and 91.3%, respectively; p<0.001). The proportion of malignancies among TI-RADS 2 was 0.8%, and TI-RADS 3 was 1.7%. Among those classified as TI-RADS 4A, proportion of malignancies was 16.0%, 43.2% in 4B, 72.7% in 4C and 91.3% among TI-RADS 5 (p<0.001), showing clear association between TI-RADS and biopsy results. Conclusion The TI-RADS is appropriate to assess thyroid nodules and avoid unnecessary fine needle aspiration, as well as to assist in making decision about when this procedure should be performed.

RESUMO Objetivo Apresentar a correlação entre o Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) e o sistema Bethesda, para relatar citopatologia em 1.000 nódulos tireoidianos. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo realizado no período de novembro de 2011 a fevereiro de 2014, que avaliou 1.000 nódulos tireoidianos de 906 pacientes submetidos a exame de ultrassonografia e à punção aspirativa por agulha fina. Resultados Observou-se associação significativa entre o TI-RADS e o resultado da classificação de Bethesda (p<0,001). A maioria dos indivíduos com TI-RADS 2 ou 3 teve resultado citológico Bethesda 2 (95,5% e 92,5%, respectivamente). Entre aqueles classificados TI-RADS 4C e 5, a maioria teve resultado Bethesda 6 (68,2% e 91,3%, respectivamente; p<0,001). A proporção de malignidades em TI-RADS 2 foi 0,8% e em TI-RADS 3 foi 1,7%. Entre TI-RADS 4A, foi de 16,0%, 43,2% em 4B, 72,7% em 4C e em 5 foi de 91,3% (p<0,001), mostrando clara associação entre o TI-RADS e os resultados da biópsia. Conclusão O TI-RADS é apropriado para avaliar nódulos da tireoide e evitar punção aspirativa por agulha fina desnecessária, além de auxiliar na decisão sobre quando este procedimento deve ser realizado.

Comparação das classificações dos nódulos de tireoide ao Doppler colorido descritas por Lagalla e Chammas / Comparison of color Doppler-evaluated thyroid nodule classifications as described by Lagalla and Chammas

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as classificações da vascularização dos nódulos de tireoide ao Doppler colorido descritas por Lagalla e cols. e Chammas e cols. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados 265 nódulos de tireoide com Doppler colorido e citopatologia. RESULTADOS: No diagnóstico de nódulos com citopatologia maligna, os padrões IV e V de Chammas mostraram sensibilidade de 16,7 por cento, especificidade de 97,6 por cento, valor preditivo positivo de 33,3 por cento, valor preditivo negativo de 94,1 por cento e acurácia de 92,1 por cento. O padrão III de Lagalla mostrou sensibilidade de 44,4 por cento, especificidade de 19,4 por cento, valor preditivo positivo de 3,9 por cento, valor preditivo negativo de 82,8 por cento e acurácia de 21,1 por cento. CONCLUSÃO: A classificação de Lagalla mostrou baixas sensibilidade e acurácia na detecção de nódulos com citopatologia maligna, enquanto a classificação de Chammas mostrou alta acurácia, porém baixa sensibilidade. O Doppler colorido mostrou-se insuficiente para substituir a punção com agulha fina e o estudo citopatológico no diagnóstico dos nódulos malignos da tireoide.

ABSTRACTOBJECTIVE: Evaluate the vascularization classification of thyroid nodules with color Doppler ultrasonography described by Lagalla and cols. and Chammas and cols. METHODS: A total of 265 thyroid nodules were studied with color Doppler and citopathology. RESULTS: In the diagnosis of nodules with malignant citopathology, Chammas's IV and V patterns showed sensibility of 16.7 percent, specificity of 97.6 percent, positive predictive value of 33.3 percent, negative predictive value of 94.1 percent and accuracy of 92.1 percent; Lagalla's III pattern showed sensibility of 44.4 percent, specificity of 19.4 percent, positive predictive value of 3.9 percent, negative predictive value of 82.8 percent and accuracy of 21.1 percent. CONCLUSION: Lagalla's classification showed low sensibility and accuracy in the detection of nodules with malignant citopathology, while Chammas's classification showed high accuracy, however, low sensibility. Color Doppler was also insufficient to substitute the small needle punction and the citopathologic study in the diagnosis of malignant thyroid nodules.

Punción de nódulos tiroídeos con aguja fina: análisis de los resultados obtenidos utilizando una nueva metódica con examen histológico de la muestra / Fine needle punction of thyroid nodules: analysis of obtained results using a new method with histological test of the sample

Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is the most usuful preoperative work up method for patients with nodular goiter. We analyze 173 patients that underwent FNAB and were subsequently operated. The sample obtained with FNAB was processed both for cytological and histological study, using methods developed at the hospital. The preoperative diagnosis reached was compared with that obtained with the surgical piece. Results showed that the the histological analysis of the FNAB sample improved the sensitivity of the method, when compared with the cytological study, from 68,5 percent to 87.8 percent (p<0,035) without modifying specificity (100 percent for both methods). It is concluded that FNAB with histological study of the sample has a high diagnostic yield and is exempt of complications

Evaluación de nódulos tiroídeos mediante punción aspirativa con aguja fina bajo ultrasonido: experiencia en 120 casos / Evaluation of thyroid nodules using ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration biopsy: experience in 120 cases

Los nódulos tiroideos son un problema clínico común, su prevalencia es de un 4 a 7 por ciento. La mayoría son benignos, pero alrededor de un 0,1 a 20 por ciento son malignos. La PAAF guíada por ultrasonido nos permite seleccionar aquellos nódulos que requieren cirugía con un alto grado de sensibilidad y especificidad evitando procedimientos innecesarios y costosos. El propósito del estudio es establecer la eficacia del método, determinando la incidencia de cáncer en la población estudiada y los parámetros técnicos mas adecuados que permitan una punción óptima

Classificação ultra-sonográfica dos nódulos tireóideos segundo o risco de malignidade / Ultrasonographic classification of thyroid nodules according the risk of malignancy

A ultra-sonografia da tireóide, por ser um método simples, não invasivo e apresentar boa correlação com os aspectos macroscópicos dos nódulos tireóideos é um procedimento cada vez mais empregado na avaliação inicial da lesão nodular da tireóide. Nenhum sinal ultra-sonográfico é patognomônico para nódulo maligno mas a associação de algumas características como ausência de halo, presença de microcalcificações, hipoecogenicidade e contornos irregulares, aumenta o risco de malignidade de uma lesão. Dessa forma, o ultra-som pode identificar as lesões nodulares com maior potencial de malignidade, permitindo selecionar nódulos para biópsias em uma tireóide multinodular / Thyroid ultrasound is widely used as the initial work-up in patients with thyroid nodules. This imaging method is easy, noninvasive and very sensitive for detecting subtle variations in thyroid nodule architecture. However, there has been no reliable sonographic signs for distinguishing benign from malignant thyroid conditions. In the case that multiple ultrasonographic abnormalities are simultaneously present in a thyroid nodule, such as absence or an incomplete peripheral halo, internal microcalcifications, hypoechoic pattern and irregular margin, this echographic appeareance may favour the diagnosis of malignancy...